Winter Woofstock was held on November 19th and 20th at The Direct Energy Centre and once again hundreds of people and dogs came to enjoy the festival.
Marlene Cook, founder of Woofstock, came up with the idea to host a festival for dogs and said it’s different from any other dog-related event.
“It celebrates canine companionship and people who love their dogs and is North America’s largest festival for dogs,” Cook said.
Having worked many consumer shows in the past Cook always dreamed about putting one on herself.
“I used to work on other consumer shows when one day I was asked about my dream show. I mentioned Woofstock and before I knew it Woofstock was born,” said Cook.
“It started 10 years ago at the Distillery District and we quickly outgrew there after three years. We have been at the St Lawrence Market area since with over 260,000 attending.”
Animal lover and activist Siggie Eini attended Woofstock to get the message out about animal abuse.
“It is a chance to meet and network with like-minded people. Woofstock has been fundamental to me this year. I have been able to network for a movement called Paws for Hope and Faith, and have found caring foster parents for neglected animals,” she said.
Not only is Woofstock an event to help people pamper their beloved pooches, it’s also about spreading the word about the different rescue agencies organizations who protect animals.
“I have been able to network with rescues in Ontario in order to start our own Canadian movements (to protect animals),” Eini said. “It’s a great way to meet other crazy animal lovers.”
Cook works to engage rescue agencies from all over North America to attend Woofstock: “We always like to support agencies such as WSPA and other canine rescue groups, (K9 rescue me). We give away over $75,000 a year in space and sponsorship,” Cook said.